Toenail Fungus Laser Treatment in Westminster

Located between Garden Grove and Huntington Beach in beautiful Orange County, California, the beautiful City of Westminster was incorporated in 1957 and has a population of just over 90,000 residents. The city was formed by the joining of two towns, Barber City and Westminster, which had been named for the Westminster Assembly of 1643 by the Presbyterian minister who founded the town.

In its early years, Westminster was a “dry” town, founded on tenets of the Presbyterian faith that called for absolute abstinence from alcohol. The call for avoiding alcohol was so strong that at first the farmers in the area refused to harvest their grapes because of the association between grapes and wine.

Little Saigon in Westminster

In the early 1980s, the city experienced a large influx of Vietnamese immigrants. Within a few years, Vietnamese Americans made up a large portion of the population in Westminster. Today, Vietnamese Americans account for just over 40 percent of the city’s 90,000 residents.

The new Westminster residents settle primarily around the Bolsa and Brookhurst Roads, establishing “Little Saigon,” the unofficial capital city of Vietnamese Americans. Little Saigon soon spread into neighboring Garden City. Between the two cities, Little Saigon in Orange County accounts for over 87,000 Vietnamese American residents, the highest population concentration per capita of any area in the US.

Little Saigon contains a great many Vietnamese and Chinese American strip malls, offering a variety of products and services. Approximately 200 restaurants compete for business in Little Saigon, most of the offering traditional Vietnamese cuisine, especially pho. One of the most popular shopping destinations in Little Saigon is the Asian Garden Mall, developed by Little Saigon founder Frank Jao.

All-American City – Westminster, CA

In 1995 was awarded the All-American City Award by the National Civics League in recognition of the city’s work to create an inclusive environment and addressing critical issues in their community.

A Day at The Beach in Westminster, CA

Westminster, California is a landlocked city that borders Seal Beach on the west. Just a few minutes drive will take overheated Westminsterians to cool off on Seal Beach, swimming, surfing, or sunbathing. Located a few miles inland from the cooling waters of the Pacific Ocean, Westminster is subject to warmer summer temperatures than are typical in Southern California beach towns. During the hottest months of summer, residents of Westminster can expect to see temperatures in the upper 80s and lower 90s, driving some residents to seek relief at the beach.

For the thousands of residents of Southern California suffering from thick, unsightly toenails, the idea of taking their shoes off to walk in the sand is not a happy one. Embarrassment about thick, discolored toenails prevent many people from showing

off their toes, as they refrain from going barefoot or even wearing sandals.

Dr. Jeffery Kleis, DPM, is a podiatrist serving all of Orange County and the surrounding areas. Located in Costa Mesa, Dr. Kleis has treated thousands of men and women suffering from toenail fungus, a condition that causes thick, discolored toenails. Dr. Kleis offers several treatments for toenail fungus, including the very latest in laser technology. To see if laser treatment for toenail fungus is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kleis by calling (714) 760-4944 or (866) 333-8710.

Toenail Fungus in Westminster

Toenail fungus is caused by microbes that exist everywhere in the environment and thrive in moist, dark places. Fungi, mold, and yeast can all infect the nails and these microorganisms are nearly always present in environments with sufficient moisture and lack of sunlight. Moist, dark areas are prime places for fungi microbes to thrive, but they exist in nearly every environment, and we are always coming into contact with them.

Up to 10% of the population is estimated to suffer from toenail fungus infections. This condition is so common because the microbes that cause the infection are all around us all the time. When we wear tight fighting shoes that trap sweat and moisture next to our skin, we help to create an environment where fungus can take hold on our feet and toenails.

Healthy nails are more resistant to infection from fungus causing microbes. People most at risk for developing toenail fungus are athletes, elderly people, and people with other health conditions that lower their immune system. Some of the most common places to come into contact with toenail fungus are public pools, gyms, and showers, but the microbes are present everywhere in our environment.

Athletes With Toenail Fungus

Athletes are more susceptible to toenail fungus for several reasons. First, they are more likely to cause repetitive trauma to their toenails, weakening the nail bed and giving fungi a place to take hold. Also, the types of shoes worn by athletes tend to be tight in order to provide proper support for training. The tightness of the shoes, however, means that there is little air flow, trapping sweat and moisture inside the shoe and providing ideal conditions for toenail fungi to grow.

Toenail Fungus in Older People

As men and women age, they become more susceptible to a variety of ailments. The cell regeneration slows down and healing doesn’t happen as quickly as it used to. The natural aging process, even for people who are otherwise in excellent health, makes older people more likely to get toenail fungus. It’s so common among the elderly that people often think nothing of Grandpa’s ugly thick toenails or expect Grandma to wear sandals when her toes look like “that.”

But, being over 55 doesn’t mean you have to give in to toenail fungus or stop showing your toes. Beautiful, healthy nails are possible at any age with laser treatments for toenail fungus. Laser treatments for toenail fungus don’t have any side effects, are not painful, and don’t require anesthesia or pain medication. This makes it appropriate for patients of all ages, including older people with toenail fungus.

Toenail Fungus In People With Health Conditions

Underlying health conditions like diabetes and heart disease can lower the body’s overall ability to fight infection. Lowered immunity makes it easier for toenail fungus to take hold and grow. In fact, people with diabetes are more than twice as likely to get toenail fungus as the general population. Not only are people with health conditions more likely to get toenail fungus, but they are also less likely to qualify for oral medications to fight it. The possible side effects of oral treatments for toenail fungus make it difficult for people with diabetes, heart conditions, or liver disease to qualify for treatment.

Laser toenail fungus treatment is safe for everyone. The focused, laser technology uses pulses to ensure that the surrounding tissues aren’t harmed and that the treatment remains safe and pain-free. Dr. Kleis uses two different lasers in his office, allowing him to target a wider range of fungus causing organisms. The lasers target only the microbes beneath the nail and don’t harm the surrounding tissues. The treatment is pain-free and doesn’t require an anesthetic. Most patients see improvement in their nails after a single treatment.

If you’re not sure if you’re a candidate for oral antifungal treatments for toenail fungus, call Dr. Kleis at (714) 760-4944 or (866) 333-8710 to schedule a consultation. Dr. Kleis can schedule laser toenail treatment that won’t put your health at risk!

Types of Toenail Fungus

There are several types of toenail fungus. Medical terms for toenail fungus are onychomycosis and tinea unguium.

Onychomycosis

The most common fungi to cause toenail infection is Trichophyton rubrum or T. rubrum. T. rubrum causes onychomycosis, a condition that causes the nail to raise up from the nail bed. Usually, this process begins at the end of the toe, raising the toenail up and eventually causing the toenail to become thick and flaky. This condition is often accompanied by athletes foot between the toes or on the bottom of the foot.

A less common form of onychomycosis is called “proximal subungual onychomycosis” and starts at the base of the toenail, at the cuticle. From there, the toenail begins to raise up and spread toward the tip of the toenail. This form of onychomycosis is most often seen in patients with diabetes.

Yeast Onychomycosis

Candida is a common form of yeast that can cause yellow, brown, white or thickened nails. Patients with Candida toenail or fingernail infections often have yeast infections in their mouths, as well. Candida fungal infections cause the nails to flake off and exposes the nail bed underneath. Candida infections are sometimes accompanied by paronychia, an infection of the cuticle around the nail.

Onychomycosis Treatments

Onychomycosis can be treated with oral medications, topical medicines, or laser treatments. Oral medication carries risks of side effects and topical medications have a hard time penetrating the nail to kill the fungus. Laser treatments, however, have proven effective against all types of toenail fungus and have no side effects. The laser treatment is painless and won’t harm healthy tissue, eliminating the need for anesthesia or pain medication after the treatments.

Laser Onychomycosis treatments last about thirty minutes, during which the patient experiences a warming sensation where the laser is focused, but no pain. The laser light heats the fungal organisms, killing them without harming healthy tissue. Patients are able to return to normal activity as soon as the treatment is concluded.

White Superficial Onychomycosis

A toenail fungus most commonly found in tropical environments is called white superficial onychomycosis. This fungal infection typically has a powdery white material on the top of the nail and is caused by a fungus known as Trichophyton mentagrophytes.

White Superficial Onychomycosis Treatment

Laser toenail fungus treatment is effective in treating white superficial onychomycosis. The treatment is painless and only takes about thirty minutes. Nearly all patients report clearer, more beautiful toenails after a single laser treatment.

Tinea Unguium

Another name for toenail fungus is Tinea Unguium. Tinea Unguim causes toenails to become thick and discolored. Infected toenails often become thick and misshapen, difficult to cut or care for. Discolored nails may be green, yellow, brown or black. Toenails infected with fungi can also be thick and flaky or begin to crumble. Sometimes toenails even fall off due to toenail fungus infection.

If you have thick, unsightly toenails, call Dr. Kleis for a consultation. He can diagnose your toenail problem and help arrange for the treatment you need to restore your beautiful, natural nails. Call Dr. Kleis today at (714) 760-4944 or (866) 333-8710.

Yellow Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus infections can cause your toenails to get thick and unsightly. Often, toenails will become discolored, turning yellow as they grow thick and ugly. Toenails that are infected with toenail fungus are hard to care for and can make men and women self-conscious. Left untreated, toenail fungus infections can cause pain and discomfort upon walking. The toenails become so thick and misshapen that they create pressure and pain when standing or walking.

Yellow Toenail Treatment

Toenail fungus can be treated most effectively, and with the fewest side effects, using laser toenail therapy. Dr. Kleis is the only laser care center in Southern California to offer two different laser machines that can target a wider range of fungus causing microorganisms. Using the Cutera Genesis Plus and the Clear Q lasers, Dr. Kleis can treat yellow toenail infections in a way that ensures a high success rate with no side effects for his patients.

Toenail Fungus Symptoms

In the beginning, toenail fungus can be hard to spot. It can look like a white or yellow spot under the tip of the toenail. The first symptoms of toenail fungus can be so slight, however, that most people don’t know they have it until their toenails start to thicken and become misshapen.

Symptoms of toenail fungus infections include:

Thick Toenails

Misshapen Toenails

Discolored Toenails

Flaky Toenails

Toenails That Fall Off

Thick, brown toenails are an indication that you likely have a toenail fungus infection. Fungal infections can also give you discolored toenails that are white, green, yellow, or black. Toenails that flake off and crumble are also a sign of toenail fungus.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kleis today to discuss a course of treatment that will have you rushing to put on sandals once again! Call Dr. Kleis at (714) 760-4944 or (866) 333-8710.

Toenail Fungus Pain

The fungi, mold, and yeast that cause toenail fungus infections do not cause pain in and of themselves. However, if left untreated, the nail will often become thick and distorted, making the wearing of shoes extremely uncomfortable and causing pain when standing or walking.

Aside from being uncomfortable, the fungus infected nail will sometimes lift off the nail bed, creating a gap where bacteria can grow. Bacteria cause infections that can be painful and often smell bad. If you have distorted toenails that are causing you pain or have an odor that you can’t seem to get rid of through proper hygiene, you should schedule a visit with Dr. Kleis to have your condition evaluated. Whether you are suffering pain from a toenail fungus infection or a bacterial infection, Dr. Kleis can recommend the appropriate course of action. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kleis by calling (714) 760-4944 or (866) 333-8710 today.

Toenail Fungus FAQs

What Causes Toenail Fungus?

Fungal infections of the toenails are most often caused by exposure to moist, wet areas. Communal showers, such as those found at a gym or public pool are often sources of infection. Having athletes foot is also a risk factor for developing toenail fungus, as athletes foot is a fungus that can, over time, infect the nail bed, as well.

Tight-fitting shoes, worn for long periods of time in hot, sweaty conditions, also provide an environment for toenail fungus to gain a foothold. Repeated trauma to the toenail can weaken the nails and provide an opportunity for toenail fungus to begin.

Can I get toenail fungus from a pedicure?

It is possible to contract toenail fungus from a nail salon. If the sanitary conditions of a salon are not sufficiently maintained, toenail fungi can lurk in the cracks and crevices of basins and equipment. These fungi can then be passed from one customer to another. Proper hygiene and a strict cleaning regimen will reduce the chances of toenail fungus being contracted by customers of a nail salon. It is important to avoid nail salons that lack good sanitation.

Can I get a pedicure while I have toenail fungus?

It is possible to get a pedicure, even if you have a toenail fungus. However, it is important to choose a salon that is equipped with proper sanitation equipment and be upfront about your condition so that the nail technician will be prepared to sanitize properly afterward. Calling ahead will ensure that the salon you choose is equipped to handle your situation. In some cases, a customer will be asked to provide their own manicure tools and nail polish to avoid spreading the fungus.

What does the beginning of toenail fungus look like?

Toenail fungus often begins as a small white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail. It is generally not painful or particularly noticeable in the early stages. As the infection grows, the nail may become discolored, thicken, or become distorted.

What does toenail fungus look like?

In the beginning, toenail fungus is not very noticeable. It may start out as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your toenail. As time goes on, your toenail may become thicker or distorted, making it difficult to cut your toenails. Your toes may become painful, especially if the affected toe is under pressure.

Toenail fungus may turn your toenail black, yellow, green, or white, depending on the type of infection. The nail can become brittle or crumbly. Pieces of the nail may break off or the nail may fall off completely. The skin around the infected toenail may also get red, irritated, swollen, or cracked.

Is toenail fungus contagious?

Toenail fungus is contagious in the sense that it is possible to get it. However, most people are resistant to the fungus and will only develop it if there are some underlying problems like lower immunity, damaged nails, or prolonged exposure to moist, wet conditions surrounding the feet. Because toenail fungus is so common, you can expect that more than one person in a household may have it, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that one person passed it to another. The fungi, mold, and yeast that commonly cause toenail fungus are present in most moist, wet areas, including home bathrooms, bathtubs, and showers. A person “catches” toenail fungus by having weakened nails and then being exposed to the fungus, rather than simple exposure to another person with toenail fungus.

How to treat toenail fungus

Oral medications work with your body to clear the infection more quickly than topical treatments but come with side effects like liver problems and skin rash.

Topical treatments can take longer to work, sometimes up to a year to clear a fungal infection. Surgery can be used to remove the infected nail and allow a new, healthy nail to grow. This treatment is usually only prescribed if the infection is very severe and/or painful.

Laser treatments are the easiest way to get rid of toenail fungus. Lasers target the fungi under the nail and kill it, with no side effects and no discomfort. Other than a slight warming sensation, the patients feel very little during treatment. Once the lasers have killed the fungus, the nail simply grows out, healthy and normal. In some cases, your podiatrist may recommend more than one laser treatment, to ensure that all fungi have been eliminated.

How to treat toenail fungus at home

There are several home remedies for toenail fungus. People use Vicks VapoRub, snakeroot extract, eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, oregano oil, and hydrogen peroxide, among others. While some of these methods may work when the fungal infection is in the early stages, advanced toenail fungus needs to be treated in a doctors office for best results.

Does Peroxide Get Rid of Toenail Fungus?

Hydrogen peroxide can kill fungus microbes. Soaking your foot in peroxide can, in some cases, help get rid of toenail fungus. However, because it is difficult for hydrogen peroxide to reach all of the areas of the toe where the fungus can grow, such as under the nail, in the nail bed, it can be difficult to completely treat advanced fungus with peroxide alone. Using peroxide as a preventive or early intervention tool can be quite effective, however.

Will Toenail Fungus Go Away on Its Own?

In most cases, toenail fungus will not go away on its own. It requires treatment to eliminate it and prevent the spread to other, healthy toenails.

Can I Cut My Toenails if They Have Fungus?

Yes, you can cut your toenails, even if they have fungus. To avoid spreading the fungus to other toenails, be sure to thoroughly clean the cutting instruments between toes using bleach or peroxide. To make cutting your toenails easier, soak your feet for ten minutes or so in warm water to soften the nails. Then, use sharp nail clippers to cut straight across, using small cuts to avoid splintering the nail and damaging the nail bed.

Does Nail Polish Cause Toenail Fungus

While nail polish doesn’t exactly CAUSE toenail fungus, it can increase your chances of getting it. Dark nail polish, especially if worn all the time, can block sunlight from reaching your nail bed. Sunlight can kill fungus microbes and prevent toenail fungus from growing. Keeping your nails constantly covered up with polish can increase your chances for toenail fungus to grow. Also, nail salons are a place where you might come into contact with fungi if the nail technicians aren’t vigilant about cleaning pedicure instruments between customers. Use care in choosing a nail salon and, if possible, visit in the morning when instruments are generally the cleanest.

Will my toenails grow back after fungus treatment?

Yes! After treatment, you can expect your toenail to continue to grow out at its natural rate, replacing the unsightly nail with a beautiful, healthy one.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

There are several different treatments for men and women suffering from toenail fungus. Oral medications are extremely effective in clearing fungal infections but have been shown to have moderate to severe side effects including: diarrhea, upset stomach, rashes, liver damage, and even heart failure. Many patients with other health problems aren’t candidates for oral medication because of the serious nature of the possible side effects.

Topical treatments for toenail fungus do not have side effects but can be less effective than oral medications in clearing up the infection. Topical treatments have to penetrate the nail in order to attack the fungi living beneath the nail surface. If the topical medications aren’t able to penetrate the toenail, the fungus won’t be eliminated.

Laser treatments for toenail fungus are shown to be most effective with the least chance of side effects. Patients in poor health are still candidates for laser toenail treatments, as the laser treatment doesn’t require any anesthetic or carry any side effects. Laser treatments are fast and effective, leaving patients with clearer nails with zero recovery time.

Toenail Fungus Medication

There are several prescription oral medications for toenail fungus, as well as several topical medications. Oral medications must be taken for several weeks to several months and can have serious side effects.

Topical medications are less effective than oral medicines, as it can be difficult for the medications to penetrate the nail and attack the fungus beneath. However, topical medications do not have the same side effects as oral medications.

Laser nail fungus treatments are effective and have zero side effects. Nearly all patients report at least some improvement in the appearance of their nails after just one treatment and a clinical study reported no adverse side effects from laser use.

What is the best treatment for toenail fungus?

The best treatment for toenail fungus is lasers. Clinical studies show that 80% of patients showed clear toenails after a single treatment. It is important to note that the treatment kills the fungi, but it can take up to a year for the toenail to completely grow out and eliminate the appearance of toenail fungus. But, that doesn’t mean the fungus isn’t gone. Lasers kill toenail fungus, usually in a single treatment, using heat to kill the fungus or mold cells without causing discomfort to the patient

Laser Treatment for Toenail Fungus in Westminster

Dr. Kleis uses two different lasers to treat toenail fungus. The Cutera Genesis Plus and the Q Clear lasers allow Dr. Kleis to target a wider range of the microorganisms that cause toenail fungus. Laser treatment for toenail fungus poses no risk, as there are no side effects. The entire procedure is pain-free and no recovery time is required. Patients report a slight warming sensation in the area that is targeted by the laser treatment, but the healthy tissues remain unharmed, allowing them to return to normal activity as soon as the procedure is complete.

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*Disclaimer: If you have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. All information, content and material on this website is for informational purposes only, and is not medical advice or serve as consultation, diagnosis and/or medical treatment. Dr. Jeffrey Kleis DPM disclaims any liability based on information provided on this website.